The London Borough of Waltham Forest

Waltham Forest The Borough of Waltham Forest lies to the east of central London, with its centre, Walthamstow, located 30 minutes from the city. For shoppers, Walthamstow is home to Britain's longest street market, providing nearly one mile of stalls selling everything from hardware to food and clothes. Five minutes walk away from the hustle and bustle of the market is Walthamstow Village, a designated conservation area, where visitors can get a glimpse of the origins of Walthamstow. Within the village is the Vestry House Museum, built in the 18th century as the parish workhouse, which has a reconstructed Victorian parlour and police cell amongst its exhibits. Famous people connected with the borough include Benjamin Disraeli who was educated locally and William Morris, the 19th-century artist, poet and craftsman. The Morris family home, dating back to the mid 18th century, is now the William Morris Gallery located in Lloyd Park. The gallery displays a permanent exhibition of his life and work including wallpapers, fabrics, carpets and stained glass.